Root canal or extraction?

Root canal or extraction?

This can be a common dilemma. You have a tooth that can saved but to do so your dentist must perform a root canal treatment and later on will need to place a crown over the tooth. There is of course another option but that is to have the tooth extracted. So which should you choose?

It any dentist’s opinion if a tooth can be saved it is worth saving. But there are several other factors to weigh up. Firstly, are you willing and able to afford to have root canal therapy and a crown? This is often costly and may be out of your reach and if so then there may be only the option to extract the tooth.

Secondly, are you willing to return to your dentist for multiple visits to have the treatment completed? It may be inconvenient and often difficult to find the time to visit the dentist if you have other commitments such as work or family.

Thirdly, will you miss the tooth if it is extracted? The answer to this is most probably yes, but how much would you miss it. You would not be fully aware until the tooth is extracted at which point it is too late. Removing any tooth will increase the load and effort of the adjacent and surrounding teeth. It may also lead to movement of surrounding teeth, often making them harder to clean and more susceptible to decay.

Finally can the tooth be replaced if it is removed? Teeth can normally always be replaced. The option of a denture, a bridge or an implant may be available to you but may end up being more costly than trying to save the tooth. Obviously ever case is different and your particular case should be discussed in depth with your dentist. It is highly important that you are aware of all your options, the pros and cons of each prior to making an informed decision.

David Hurst BDS (Lon)